Chinese AI developers DeepSeek and MiniMax Group Inc. have secured state approval for overseas deployment of their artificial intelligence models. The approvals follow proposed export controls announced on October 16, 2026, targeting 23 AI technologies. State broadcaster CCTV's affiliate Yuyuantantian emphasized that open-source models, API access, and software-as-a-service features remain largely exempt to support commercialization amid technological competition with the United States.
DeepSeek global deployment approval
- ▪Chinese state media account Yuyuan Tantian reported on October 23, 2026 that overseas internet users urged other Chinese open-source large language model developers to register for global use following DeepSeek's approval for overseas deployment of its AI models
- ▪Artificial intelligence startup DeepSeek successfully completed Chinese state registration, open-sourcing, and authorization procedures for overseas deployment of its AI models on October 22, 2026
MiniMax global deployment approval
- ▪MiniMax Group Inc. completed the registration process and authorization procedures with Chinese regulators under China's October 16, 2026 proposed export controls for open-sourcing and overseas deployment of its AI models on October 22, 2026
- ▪Chinese state media affiliate Yuyuantantian stated on October 22, 2026 that Chinese AI companies including MiniMax can continue commercialization efforts as usual
Chinese AI export controls
- ▪Beijing previously added algorithms to its catalog of export-restricted technologies in 2020 after the Trump administration threatened to ban TikTok in the United States
- ▪Chinese authorities forced the unwinding of Meta Platforms Inc.'s acquisition of Manus, an AI agent startup with Chinese roots, due to strategic technology export concerns
- ▪China's Ministry of Commerce proposed export controls covering 23 artificial intelligence technologies on October 16, 2026, targeting tools involving models, agents, and computing clusters
Open-source AI exemptions
- ▪China's proposed export controls announced on October 16, 2026 offer simplified licensing for open-source technology exports and Chinese companies operating their own computing centres overseas
- ▪China Central Television affiliate Yuyuantantian reported that much of Chinese AI technology will remain free for export despite proposed export control rules
API access carveouts
- ▪China's proposed export control regulations announced on October 16, 2026 exempt API access, web applications, and software-as-a-service features from export restrictions even when powered by restricted underlying models
- ▪Chinese regulatory revisions to the technology export catalog announced on October 16, 2026 aim to define boundaries rather than simply restrict the export of AI technology, according to Yuyuantantian
China-US AI competition
- ▪Chinese AI startups have closed performance gaps with US market leaders by offering more affordable pricing and customizable models compared to proprietary systems from OpenAI and Anthropic PBC
- ▪State media post Yuyuantantian accused the United States of using targeted export bans and technology blockades to protect competitive dominance while asserting China does not follow that path
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